UP10TION (업텐션, also known as U10T) is a Korean boy group, which originally debuted with 10 members but currently consists of 7 members. The group name can be read as “up tension”, and is an acronym for “Unbelievable Perfect 10 members Teenager Idol Open Now”. It means to pay attention to the 10 boys who will definitely lead the music scene of K-Pop with their performance.
Table of contents
UP10TION’s Biography
- Group Name: UP10TION (업텐션)
- Debut Date: September 10, 2015
- Current Members: Kuhn, Kogyeol, Bit-to, Sunyoul, Gyujin, Hwanhee and Xiao
- Former Members: Jinhoo, Lee Jin-hyuk (Wei), Kim Woo-seok (Wooshin)
- Agency: TOP Media (former)
- Fandom Name: HONEY10 (허니텐)
- Color: Honey Gold
UP10TION’s SNS
- Twitter: @up10tion
- Instagram: @u10t_official
- Facebook: UP10TION
- Youtube: UP10TION
- TikTok: @up10tion__
UP10TION’s Career
Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Prior to their debut, the members of UP10TION were introduced through the Naver TVCast series “복면신인왕전 UP10TION” (tentative: “King of Masked Rookie UP10TION”), a parody of the MBC reality show “King of Mask Singers”. The series began airing on July 20, 2015
UP10TION then held their debut showcase at AX Concert Hall in Seoul with 500 fans, before having their official debut stage on September 10 on “M Countdown”.
Shortly after debuting, UP10TION released their second mini-album “Bravo!” in November 2015, followed by their third mini-album “Spotlight” in April 2016. Their popularity continued to grow with the release of their fourth mini-album “Summer Go!” in August of the same year, establishing a solid fanbase known as HONEY10.
In 2016, member Wooshin (Kim Woo-seok) gained additional recognition when he was selected as an MC for SBS MTV’s “The Show”. Later that year, UP10TION’s fifth mini-album “Burst” made a strong impact, leading to their first-ever nomination for first place on Music Bank. Their growing influence was also evident when they performed a special cover stage with the girl group Sonamoo on “Music Bank‘s Gayo Top Ten”.
Expansion into Japan and International Success
UP10TION officially debuted in Japan in March 2017 with their single “ID.” The same year, they embarked on their first Japan ZEPP Tour and performed at KCON 2017 NY before releasing their sixth mini-album “STAR;DOM.” Their title track “Runner” earned them another first-place nomination on Music Bank. The group also held their first solo concert, “The 1st TENSION UP,” further solidifying their international presence.
In 2018, UP10TION continued their expansion with their second Japanese single “WILD LOVE,” followed by their first full-length Korean album “INVITATION.” That year, they also held their first Europe Tour, visiting Germany, Poland, France, and the UK.
Challenges and New Beginnings
The year 2019 brought changes to the group as Wei (Lee Jin-hyuk) and Wooshin (Kim Woo-seok) temporarily left to participate in “Produce X 101”. Following the show, Kim Woo-seok debuted with X1, while Lee Jin-hyuk pursued solo activities. Despite their absence, UP10TION continued as an 8-member group, releasing their eighth mini-album “The Moment of Illusion.” This was a pivotal year, as the group’s fanbase expanded due to the members’ participation in the survival program.
In 2020, X1 disbanded, and Kim Woo-seok returned to solo activities, but didn’t return to the group. The group also faced difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the cancellation of their Seoul fan meeting. Despite this, they released their ninth mini-album “Light UP” marking a significant turning point.
Solo Activities and Military Service
From 2021 to 2023, several members began focusing on individual careers. Lee Jin-hyuk and Kim Woo-seok pursued solo music and acting, while Sunyoul actively participated in trot competitions such as “Mister Trot 2”. Additionally, Hwanhee and Xiao appeared on “Boys Planet”, further showcasing their talents.
In 2023, UP10TION faced another major transition as all remaining members officially ended their contracts with TOP Media. While the company initially stated its intent to continue supporting the group’s activities, the members began enlisting for military service, making future group promotions uncertain.
UP10TION’s Dating & Marriage
Kuhn’s Marriage
UP10TION’s Kuhn (real name No Soo-il), has announced his upcoming marriage through a heartfelt handwritten letter to fans. Reflecting on his decade-long journey since debuting in 2015, Kuhn expressed gratitude for the support from his fans, known as HONEY10s, and shared his excitement about embarking on this new chapter with his partner. He also acknowledged the ups and downs they’ve faced together and expressed his desire to continue their journey as lifelong partners.
Kim Woo-seok’s Relationship
After dating rumors that emerged in October 2024, Kim Woo-seok and Kang Na-eon, who star together in “Social Savvy Class 101”, confirmed their relationship, with their agencies saying, “The two have cautiously developed their relationship after completing their work.” However, Kim Woo-seok enlisted soon after.
UP10TION’s Controversies
Lee Jin-hyuk’s Attitude
Former member Lee Jin-hyuk was embroiled in a controversy regarding his attitude towards Red Velvet’s Wendy. The issue began during a talk show, where Lee Jin-hyuk repeatedly snapped his fingers while Wendy was speaking, which some viewers perceived as dismissive or disrespectful. While some defended the gesture as a harmless habit or an attempt to get Wendy’s attention in a playful manner, others argued that it was inappropriate, especially given Wendy’s seniority in the industry.
Kim Woo-seok’s False Accusation
In 2017, while promoting with UP10TION, former member Kim Woo-seok was embroiled in a scandal involving Jeon Somi, where a video clip allegedly showed inappropriate behavior (touching the female idol’s chest) during a broadcast. Although the incident was later clarified as a misunderstanding, the backlash led to a significant decline in his public image. The controversy caused Kim Woo-seok to temporarily halt activities. Luckily, the male idol was able to have a rebound.
UP10TION’s Discography
Korean
- Studio albums
Invitation (2018)
Connection (2021)
- Special albums
UP10TION 2017 Special Photo Edition (2017)
UP10TION 2018 Special Photo Edition (2018)
- Mini albums
Top Secret (2015)
Bravo! (2015)
Spotlight (2016)
Summer Go! (2016)
Burst (2016)
Star;dom (2017)
Laberinto (2018)
The Moment of Illusion (2019)
Light Up (2020)
Novella (2022)
Code Name: Arrow (2022)
- OSTs
“Squad 38 OST Part.1” (2016)
Japanese
- Singles
“ID” (2017)
“Wild Love” (2018)
“Chaser” (2018)
